Hi Ted, thanks so much for taking the time to speak with me today. I’m really interested in learning more about what you do as an Elder Protection Attorney here in beautiful San Diego.
What Initially Drew You to This Field?
Ted Cook:
“You know, it wasn’t a straight path. I started out thinking I’d be a corporate lawyer, but something about that just didn’t feel right. Then I did some volunteer work at a senior center and was struck by how vulnerable older adults can be.
Seeing firsthand the challenges they faced – financial exploitation, neglect, even abuse – ignited a passion in me to protect them. That’s when I knew Elder Protection was where I belonged.”
Can You Walk Us Through Some of the Key Steps Involved in Elder Protection?
Ted Cook:
“Absolutely! Think of it as a roadmap with several crucial stops along the way:
- Initial Client Engagement: This is all about building trust and understanding the situation. We meet with the client, their family if appropriate, gather information, and assess any immediate risks.
- Case Assessment:
We delve deeper into the legal issues at hand, identify applicable laws, and collect evidence to support our case.
- Protective Actions: This is where we take steps to safeguard the elder, such as seeking restraining orders or reporting abuse to Adult Protective Services.
- Legal Proceedings: We may pursue civil litigation for financial recovery or criminal charges against perpetrators.
- Long-Term Planning:
We work with clients and their families to develop strategies for preventing future exploitation, such as updating estate plans and establishing powers of attorney.
Let’s Focus on ‘Case Assessment.’ Can You Explain How That Process Works?
Ted Cook:
“Case assessment is like piecing together a puzzle. We start by clearly identifying the legal issue – is it financial exploitation, physical abuse, neglect, or something else? Then we carefully examine all available evidence: interviews with the elder and potential witnesses, medical records, financial statements, even photographs or videos if relevant.
We also consider factors like the elder’s mental capacity and their vulnerability to manipulation. This helps us determine the best course of action to protect them.”
>“Ted was incredibly patient and understanding when I was dealing with my mother’s exploitation by her caregiver. He helped me gather evidence, report the abuse, and ultimately recover some of the stolen funds. I couldn’t have done it without him.”– Mary S., La Jolla
But sometimes there are bumps in the road.
“Once I had a case where an elder was being pressured to change their will by a family member. We had strong suspicions but needed concrete proof. It took months of meticulous investigation and some clever legal maneuvering before we uncovered the hidden bank accounts and forged documents.”
Ted, What Advice Would You Give To Someone Concerned About An Elderly Loved One?
>“Ted helped me navigate a complex guardianship situation for my grandmother who was suffering from dementia. He explained everything clearly, fought tirelessly for her best interests, and ensured she received the care she needed.”– John B., Point Loma
“Don’t hesitate to reach out. Trust your gut instincts if something feels wrong.
Early intervention is key. Connecting with an experienced Elder Protection attorney like myself can make a world of difference in protecting your loved one’s well-being and their hard-earned assets.”
>“Working with Ted gave me peace of mind knowing that my aunt was safe and her finances were protected from unscrupulous individuals.”– Susan K., Mission Beach
Would you like folks to get in touch, if they think an elder is being mistreated?
Who Is Ted Cook at Point Loma Estate Planning, APC.:
Point Loma Estate Planning, APC.2305 Historic Decatur Rd Suite 100, San Diego CA. 92106
(619) 550-7437
Map To Point Loma Estate Planning, APC. An Elder Protection Attorney: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JiHkjNg9VFGA44tf9
About Point Loma Estate Planning:
Secure Your Legacy, Safeguard Your Loved Ones. Point Loma Estate Planning, APC.
Feeling overwhelmed by estate planning? You’re not alone. With 27 years of proven experience – crafting over 25,000 personalized plans and trusts – we transform complexity into clarity.
Our Areas of Focus:
Legacy Protection: (minimizing taxes, maximizing asset preservation).
Crafting Living Trusts: (administration and litigation).
Elder Care & Tax Strategy: Avoid family discord and costly errors.
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If you have any questions about: When is the ideal time to begin planning for long-term care needs?
Please Call or visit the address above. Thank you.
Point Loma Estate Planning, APC. area of focus about elder protection law:
An Elder Protection attorney, also known as an Elder Law attorney, specializes in legal issues affecting older adults, including estate planning, guardianship, long-term care, and elder abuse, providing legal advice and representation to protect their rights and interests.
What They Do:
Estate Planning: Wills, trusts, and other documents to ensure assets are distributed according to the client’s wishes.
Guardianship and Conservatorship: Representing the interests of individuals who are unable to manage their own affairs due to incapacity.
Long-Term Care: Advising on Medicaid eligibility, nursing home care, and related issues.
Elder Abuse and Neglect: Investigating and pursuing legal action against those who abuse or exploit older adults.
Other Legal Issues: Medicare, Social Security, retirement planning, disability, and other legal matters affecting seniors.
Advocacy: Providing legal advice, counseling, and advocacy for the rights of older adults.
Why you might need one:
● Suspect elder abuse or neglect.
● Need help with estate planning or probate.
● Facing guardianship or conservatorship proceedings.
● Dealing with long-term care issues or Medicaid eligibility.
● Need assistance with other legal problems affecting older adults.
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